Hiking in Moab in October
Trails, Weather, and Tips for an Unforgettable Trip
Ask any local hiker and they will tell you that October is the month when Moab feels just right. The blazing heat of summer finally breaks, leaving behind cool mornings, warm afternoons, and skies that light up in shades of orange and pink at sunset. Cottonwoods along the Colorado River turn brilliant gold, while aspens in the La Sal Mountains shimmer against the deep red rock canyons. Trailheads are alive with hikers, but the energy feels celebratory rather than crowded—everyone knows they’ve arrived at the perfect time of year. Whether you’re chasing iconic arches, exploring quiet BLM trails, or venturing into the mountains for fall colors, October gives you the most forgiving weather and the most rewarding scenery Moab has to offer.
October is Peak Hiking Season in Moab
Talk to anyone who hikes regularly in Moab and you’ll hear the same thing—October is the month when the trails are at their absolute best. The summer heat finally gives way to crisp, comfortable days, the crowds thin just enough to make the parks more enjoyable, and the landscape takes on new life with golden cottonwoods glowing along the river and fiery sunsets casting long shadows across the red rock. It’s the kind of month where every hike feels perfectly timed, whether you’re chasing a bucket-list arch or wandering into a quiet canyon.
Perfect temperatures: Average highs sit around 74°F (23°C) with cool mornings near 44°F (6°C).
Golden fall colors: Cottonwoods along Mill Creek and the Colorado River turn yellow, while aspens blaze gold in the La Sal Mountains.
Fewer weather hazards: The intense summer sun is gone, and flash floods are rare this time of year.
Long enough days: With sunrise around 7:20 AM and sunset near 6:45 PM mid-month, there’s still plenty of daylight for adventure.
It’s no surprise that October draws more visitors to Moab than almost any other time of year—the combination of mild weather, vibrant fall colors, and world-class hiking trails makes it irresistible. Trailheads fill quickly in the mornings, parking lots at Arches and Canyonlands reach capacity by mid-day, and hotels and campgrounds often sell out weeks in advance. If you want to make the most of your trip, a little extra planning goes a long way: book your lodging early, arrive at trailheads before peak hours, and keep a backup hike in mind in case your first choice is too crowded.
What to Pack for October Hikes
Even though October brings cooler days and more forgiving weather, the desert still demands respect and preparation. The sun remains strong under clear Utah skies, mornings can start brisk before warming quickly, and the dry air pulls moisture from your body faster than you expect. Trails often cross slickrock, sand, and uneven terrain that can challenge even experienced hikers. To stay comfortable, safe, and ready for whatever the desert throws your way, it’s important to pack thoughtfully. Here’s what to bring:
Layered Clothing – A fleece or light puffy for cool mornings, plus a T-shirt for warm afternoons.
Sturdy Shoes – Moab trails include slickrock, sand, and uneven steps—good traction is a must.
Sun Protection – Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are non-negotiable.
Plenty of Water – Bring 2–3 liters per person for moderate hikes.
Headlamp or Flashlight – Essential if you stay for sunset.
Snacks – The dry desert air burns through energy fast.
How Long Does It Take to Hike to Delicate Arch?
How long does it take to hike to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park? The short answer is that it depends on a few factors, including your pace, the weather, and how much time you spend at the arch itself. Most hikers take about 45 minutes to an hour to reach the arch, then spend anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour soaking in the views before heading back down, which usually takes another 45 minutes. That means you should budget about 2–3 hours total for the round trip. Want more details, tips for families, and advice on the best times of day to go?
Read our full blog post for everything you need to know.
The Best October Hikes in Moab
With hundreds of trails around Moab, the hardest part can be deciding where to start. October gives you the freedom to explore everything from short, family-friendly strolls to challenging backcountry routes, and the cooler weather makes them all more approachable. To make it easier, think about what kind of experience you’re after: do you want to check off the iconic arches, wander into quiet BLM canyons, catch a fiery sunset over sandstone spires, or chase golden leaves high in the La Sal Mountains? Breaking the options into categories helps you match the trail to your mood, your group, and the amount of time you have.
Iconic National Park Trails
Moab’s national parks hold some of the most famous hikes in the world, and October is the perfect month to experience them. Cooler weather makes the climbs more manageable, golden light adds depth to the sandstone, and the shorter days mean sunrise and sunset arrive at hiker-friendly hours. From the unforgettable journey to Delicate Arch to the winding paths of Devils Garden, these iconic trails capture the very essence of hiking in Moab.
Delicate Arch (Arches National Park) – A must-hike in October. The 3-mile round trip is far more enjoyable without summer heat, and sunset here is pure magic.
Devils Garden Trail (Arches National Park) – Hike as little as a mile to Landscape Arch or tackle the full loop to Double O Arch and beyond.
Family-Friendly Favorites
Moab isn’t just for hardcore adventurers—many of its trails are perfect for families with kids. In October, cooler temperatures and softer light make short hikes especially enjoyable, and little ones can explore without the strain of summer heat. Trails like Sand Dune Arch and the Windows Loop offer big rewards with minimal effort, giving families the chance to experience red rock wonders together. Whether it’s scrambling through sandy slots, spotting wildlife, or watching the sunset from an easy overlook, these hikes prove that Moab is just as magical for young explorers as it is for seasoned trekkers.
Sand Dune Arch (Arches National Park) – Shaded and sandy, this trail is an instant hit with kids.
Windows Loop & Turret Arch – Short, easy, and incredibly photogenic.
Quieter BLM Trails
Not every great hike in Moab sits inside a national park. The surrounding BLM lands are full of trails that deliver stunning scenery with far fewer crowds, especially in October. These routes lead you to soaring arches, wide desert valleys, and quiet slickrock benches where you might not see another hiker for hours. With the same red rock beauty and often easier parking, trails like Corona Arch and Hidden Valley offer a more relaxed way to experience Moab’s landscapes while still feeling like an adventure.
Corona Arch – A local favorite with ladders, cables, and incredible photo ops.
Hidden Valley to Moab Rim – A moderate out-and-back trail with petroglyphs and sweeping views.
Adventure-Focused Sunset Hikes
Moab’s trails take on a whole new character at sunset. As the sun dips low, sandstone cliffs glow with deep orange and crimson, shadows stretch across the desert floor, and the cool evening air makes hiking even more inviting. October is one of the best times to chase these moments when temperatures are comfortable, skies are clear, and early sunsets mean you don’t have to be out late to catch the magic. Whether you’re watching Fisher Towers ignite in golden light, standing beneath Delicate Arch as the horizon fades, or strolling through Park Avenue at dusk, sunset hikes in October are as adventurous as they are unforgettable.
Fisher Towers – Epic spires that glow at golden hour.
Park Avenue (Arches National Park) – Short, dramatic, and ideal for sunset photography.
Fall Colors in the La Sal Mountains
As summer fades and October settles in, the La Sal Mountains above Moab burst into a golden blaze of aspen and cottonwood. Driving the La Sal Loop or hiking into the alpine feels like stepping into a painting full of vibrant yellows and russets contrasted by deep evergreens and sharp red-rock ridges below. Here’s where fall transforms the high country into one of Moab’s most magical landscapes.
Warner Lake Trail System – Cool mountain air, golden aspens, and quiet trails.
Geyser Pass – A scenic drive and short hike through glowing alpine forests.
Final Thoughts: October is When Moab Truly Shines
October is when Moab truly shines. The desert cools to hiking-perfect temperatures, the skies ignite with fiery sunsets, and golden cottonwoods frame some of the most iconic trails in the world. Whether you’ve carved out a weekend or an entire week, October gives you the freedom to hike at your own pace—chasing big adventures into the backcountry or savoring easy walks that deliver just as much beauty. Every trail feels like a reward this time of year, and every step deepens the connection to Moab’s unforgettable landscape.
👉 Ready to plan your October hiking trip?
Explore our Moab Trail Guides with maps, GPX downloads, safety tips, and insider advice to make your autumn adventure seamless.
